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Truck Accidents

Common Types of Truck Accidents

While there are multiple ways to get into an accident while out on the road, here are the most common types of truck accidents.

Written By
Published On
October 9, 2025

Being involved in a truck accident can be incredibly scary, and with so many trucks out on the road at any given time, there’s no shortage of them. With so many people out on the road, it’s no surprise that collisions happen every day.

As we continue to enter our freeways, highways, and streets in droves, we should remain vigilant as accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. While there are multiple ways to get into an accident while out on the road, here are the most common types of truck accidents: 

Rollover Accidents

Truck rollover wrecks are arguably one of the most terrifying accidents imaginable. These wrecks can happen for several reasons:

  • Cargo shift due to instability
  • Taking turns too sharply
  • Reckless driving
  • Driving while intoxicated
  • Driving while distracted

One or a combination of these reasons can cause the trail to spin and roll the truck over one side, causing a dangerous situation for everyone on the road.

Jackknife Accidents

These accidents occur when commercial trucks with trailers make wrong turns or braking maneuvers, causing the trail to sway sideways to form a shape similar to that of a folding jackknife.

Rear-End Accidents

Rear-end wrecks happen when truck drivers are speeding, distracted, or cut off by other drivers who then slam on their breaks. Tailgating or following too closely can lead to devastating rear-end collisions with other vehicles.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when a truck collides head-first with oncoming traffic. Potential causes of head-on accidents include distracted driving, speeding, or driving while under the influence. However, these collisions can also be caused by other vehicles swerving into the lane in which the truck is driving. 

T-Bone and Intersection Accidents

T-bone accidents occur commonly at intersections. Large commercial trucks traveling through intersections sometimes ignore stop signs or run red lights, violating the proper right of way at the intersection. As a result, they collide with the sides of other vehicles, forming a “T” shape.

Under-ride Accidents

These accidents happen if a truck stops suddenly and the approaching smaller vehicle gets trapped under the trailer. In addition, actions such as merging or changing lanes and when a car is in the truck’s blind spot are common causes of under-ride accidents. This is why it’s so important to follow the signs posted on the back of trucks, and to remain aware of your surroundings while in a smaller vehicle. 

Truck Load Accidents

Cargo should be appropriately secured and loaded onto a truck trailer. Improperly secured cargo can sway and fall off the truck into the road, causing a safety threat to other road users.

Brake Failure Accidents

These accidents occur when the truck driver fails to brake in time to prevent a potential accident. While there are times where this could have been avoided, brakes can also fail due to wear and tear or manufacturer defects. 

Contact An Experienced Wisconsin Truck Accident Attorney

At Natasha Misra Law, we understand that the outcome of your case will affect your life for years to come. As a personal injury attorney, Natasha Misra ensures that you are treated fairly and will work tirelessly to get you the fair financial compensation you deserve. 

Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation if you live in Wisconsin and need help filing a compensation claim after truck accidents.

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